Meta

A Glimpse into Ironbound, Newark

What seemed like many years ago, I was introduced into the multi-ethnic, working-class community of Ironbound located in Newark, New Jersey. This place was the home to many stars and celebrities including Faith Evans, Ray Liotta, Micheal B. Jordan, Queen Latifah and even Shaquille O’Neal. This beautiful community is a hidden gem (probably not for too long after reading this. Ha!)

Shaq posing with Newark High School Students on April 10th, 2018 for the ceremony of his luxury high rise in Newark, NJ. Photo Courtesy of Seth Wenig (Associated Press)

I took a short train ride from the Manhattan Penn Station and arrived at the Newark Penn Station. I recommend using this in the warmer times of the year and you will arrive on E. Raymond Plaza and Ferry Street.

Newark Penn station. Photo Courtesy of Tony Polanco

Ferry Street and Market Street are the gateways to Little Portugal and Little Brazil in New Jersey.

Portuguese immigrants migrated to Ironbound in huge numbers in the 1960’s. Brazilians started to migrate in large numbers in the late 1980’s thereafter with the majority from the state of Minas Gerais.

Ironbound is the mecca for Portuguese and Brazilians in the east coast after Astoria, Queens. If you want to learn the Portuguese language, hang out in this area. This small strip is filled with clubs, restaurants, bars, lounges, supermarkets, and even language centers.

Need specific Brazilian items? Check out Seabra Foods. Want a fresh cut? Check out the best cuts in Newark at Ferry Barber Shop. Have a taste for some fine wine? Indulge in wines at the Lisbon Wine and Liquor. Want to shake your tail feather and vibe out until the late night? Check out Rio Lounge for your clubbing needs. One of my favorite hang out spots is the Casa Nova Grill. This spot is one of the best Brazilian steakhouses in Ironbound and even turns into a club at night.